Boxing: Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas on Target for HBO-Televised Bout

It seems a bit odd but it’s been almost two years since Timothy Bradley last won inside the ring.

He hopes to change that Saturday night when he faces unbeaten contender Jessie Vargas in the main event of an HBO World Championship Boxing card, which will be televised live from the StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., at 9:45 p.m. ET/6:45 p.m. PT.

The first hurdle was cleared as “Desert Storm” easily made the welterweight limit Friday afternoon, coming in officially at 146.4 pounds. Vargas, who recently switched head trainers from Roy Jones Jr. to Erik Morales, tipped the scales at an identical weight.

Bradley (31-1-1, 12 KOs) last scored a win in October 2013 when he bested future Hall of Famer Juan Manuel Marquez over 12 rounds. He since lost a decision to all-time great Manny Pacquiao and then fought to a disputed draw with Diego Chaves. He is looking to switch gears up against the young Vargas, who hasn’t fought an opponent the caliber of Bradley just yet. Vargas (26-0, nine KOs) holds noteworthy wins against veteran Antonio DeMarco and surging contender Wale Omotoso, but Bradley’s potential HoF credentials should be on another level.

The co-featured bout pits junior lightweights Oscar Valdez against Ruben Tamayo in a 10-round affair. Bout men came in at the 130-pound limit, making their fight official as well.

HBO World Championship Boxing Weigh-in Results:

Timothy Bradley (146.4) vs. Jessie Vargas (146.4)
Oscar Valdez (127.4) vs. Ruben Tamayo (129)